Building Regulations 2000

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Protection from
IN E
falling,
collision and N L impact

APPROVED DOCUMENT K
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APPROVED DOCUMENT ION

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K1
V E
Stairs, ladders and ramps
K2 Protection from
N E falling
I and loading bays
K3 L
Vehicle barriers
K4 ON from collision with open windows,
Protection
skylights and ventilators
ISBN-10 1 85946 210 3
ISBN-13 978 1 85946 210 2 K5 Protection against impact from and trapping
Stock code 56663
by doors
collision and impact
Crown copyright 2006
Protection from falling,
The Approved Documents are published by NBS for the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.
This publication has been approved by Ministers and has official status. Copyright in the www.thenbs.com
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contents, the cover, the design and the typographical arrangement of this publication rests

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with the Crown unless otherwise stated. The contents of this publication may be reproduced

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Any other use of the contents of this publication would require a copyright licence. Please O

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in 19
Amendments to Approved Documents and
Compliance Guides 2010
All references to the Building Regulations 2000
(as amended) should be read as references to
the Building Regulations 2010.

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All references to the Building (Approved

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Inspectors etc.) Regulations 2000 should be
read as references to the Building (Approved

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Inspectors etc.) Regulations 2010.
There have been no substantive requirements

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amendments to either set of regulations, but
please note the simplification of the definition of

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room for residential purposes in regulation 2 of

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the Building Regulations 2010. Please also note
that L1(c) has now become regulation 40.
The following tables will help you to find the new
regulation number for regulations which have
been re-numbered in the 2010 Regulations. For
any regulation number not included in the tables
below, the number of the regulation has not changed.

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Approved Document G Sanitation, hot water safety and water efficiency

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Building Regulations
Regulation Regulation Regulation Regulation Regulation Regulation
number number number number number number
in Building in Building in Building in Building in Building in Building
Regulations Regulations Regulations Regulations Regulations Regulations
2000 2010 2000 2010 2000 2010
2(2A)
2(2B)
2(3)
2(4)
12(7)

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13(2)(c)(iii)
12(8)
13(2)(ii)
20AA
20B
42
43
2(2C)
2(3)
2(5)
deleted
13(3)
13(5)
RS deleted
13(3)
20C(A1)
20C(1)
44(1)
44(2)
3(1)(g)
3(1)(h)
3(1)(h)
3(1)(g)
13(6)

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13(7)E 13(4)
13(5)
20C(2)
20C(3)
44(3)
44(4)
4(1A)
4(2)
4(2)
4(3)
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14(3)(aa)
14(3)(b)
14(3)(b)
14(3)(c)
20D
20E
27
37

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4A 23 14A 15 21(1) 18(1)
4B(1) 22 15 16 21(2) 18(8)
4B(2) deleted 16A 20 21(3) 18(2)
6(1)(cc) 6(1)(d) 16B 38 21(4) 18(3)
6(1)(d) 6(1)(e) 16C 39 21(5) 18(4)
6(1)(e) 6(1)(f) 17A 24 21(6) 18(5)
6(1)(f) 6(1)(g) 17B 25 21(7) 18(6)
6(1)(ff) 6(1)(h) 17C 26 21(8) 18(7)
6(1)(g) 6(1)(i) 17D 28 22 47
9(1A) 9(2) 17E(4) 29(5) 22B(1)(a) 48(1)(a)
9(2)
9(3)
9(3)
21(1)
17E(5)
17F
29(4)
30
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22B(1)(c)
48(1)(b)
48(1)(c)
9(4) 21(2) 17G 31

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9(5)
9(5A)
21(3)
21(4)
17H
17I
32
33
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22B(1)(f)
48(1)(d)
48(1)(i)
9(6)
12(2)
21(5)
12(1)

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17J
17K
35
36
22B(1)(g)
22B(1)(h)
48(1)(j)
48(1)(l)
12(2A) 12(2)
L18 45 22B(1)(ha) 48(1)(m)

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12(4A) 12(5) 19 46 22B(1)(i) 48(1)(n)
12(5) 12(6) 20 19 22B(1)(j) 48(1)(o)
12(6) 12(7) 20A 41 22B(1)(k) 48(1)(h)
22B(1)(ka) 48(1)(k) J2A J3 J6 J7
22B(1)(l) 48(1)(e) J3 J4 L1(c) Regulation 40
22B(1)(m) 48(1)(f) J4 J5 Schedule 2A Schedule 3
22B(2) 48(2) J5 J6 Schedule 2B Schedule 4

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Building (Approved Inspectors etc.) Regulations
Regulation Regulation Regulation Regulation Regulation Regulation
number number number number number number
in Building in Building in Building in Building in Building in Building
(Approved (Approved (Approved (Approved (Approved (Approved
Inspectors etc.) Inspectors etc.) Inspectors etc.) Inspectors etc.) Inspectors etc.) Inspectors etc.)
Regulations
2000
1
Regulations
2010
1 and 38
ION Regulations
2000
13(1)(d)
Regulations
2010
12(6)(c)
Regulations
2000
25(2)
Regulations
2010
25(3)
3 4

RS 13(2) 12(1) 25(3) 25(4)

4
8
3
10
VE 13(3)
13(4)
12(2)
12(3)
31A(a)
31A(b)
32(c)
32(c)
9
10(1)
11
9(5)
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13(6)
12(4)
12(5)
31A(c)
31A(d)
32(e)
32(f)
10(2)
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9(1) 13A 13 31A(e) 32(h)

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10(3) 9(2) 14 14(1) 31A(ea) 32(i)
10(4) 9(3) 15(1) 14(2) 31A(f) 32(j)
10(5) 9(4) 15(2) 14(3) 31A(g) 32(k)
11(1)(a) 8(1)(a) 15(3) 14(4) 31A(h) 32(d)
11(1)(c) 8(1)(b) 16 15 31A(ha) 32(g)
11(2) 8(2) 17 16 31A(i) 32(a)
11A 20(1) 18(1) 17(1) 31A(j) 32(b)
12 20(1) and (3) 18(2) 17(2) and (3) *Sch 3 7A Sch 2 8
12A 20(1) and (5) 18(3) 17(4) Sch 3 8 Sch 2 9
12AA
12B
20(1)
20(1)
18(4)
18(5)

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17(6)
Sch 3 9
Sch 4 7A
Sch 2 10
Sch 3 8
12C
12D
20(1) and (6)
20(1) and (2)
18(6)
19
RS 17(7)
18
Sch 4 8
Sch 6 5A
Sch 3 9
Sch 5 6
12E
13(1)
20(1) and (4)
12(6)
20
23A
VE 19
24
Sch 6 6 Sch 6 7

13(1)(b)

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12(6)(a)

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24 25(1)
13(1)(c)

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12(6)(b) 25(1) 25(2)

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Please note that some of the numbering and cross referencing in the forms in Schedule 1 has changed slightly.
*Sch =Schedule

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 K
Contents
PAGE PAGE

Use of guidance 2 Protection from collision with open

windows, etc.
The Approved Documents
Limitation on requirements
2
2
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The Requirement K4 14

Materials and workmanship 2

RS Guidance
Performance
14
14
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare)
Requlations 1992 3
VE Section 4: Protection from collision 15

The Requirement K1
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K1 Stairs, ladders and ramps
4
Introduction to provisions 15

L Projecting parts 15

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Guidance 5 Spaces used only for maintenance 15
Performance 5
Protection against impact and trapping
Introduction 5 by doors
The Requirements K5 16
Definitions 5
Guidance 16
Section 1: Stairs and ladders 6
Performance 16
Steepness of stairs rise and going 6
Alternative approach 6 Section 5: Protection from impact 17
Construction of steps
Headroom
ION 6
7
Introduction to provisions
Safety features
17
17
Width of flights
RS 7
Standards referred to 18
Length of flights
Landings
VE 7
7
DIAGRAMS

Special stairs
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1.
2.
Measuring rise and going
Measuring headroom
6
7
Tapered treads
L 8

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3. Reduced headroom for loft conversions 7
Spiral and helical stairs 8
4. Dividing flights 7
Alternating tread stairs 9
5. Change of direction 7
Fixed ladders 9
6. Landings next to doors 8
Handrails for stairs 9
7. Cupboard onto landing 8
Guarding of stairs 9
8. Measuring tapered treads 8
Access for maintenance purposes 9
9. Alternating tread stair 9
Section 2: Ramps 10
10. Ramp design 10
Pedestrian and Vehicle barriers
The Requirements K2/3 11
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11.
12.
Guarding design
Typical locations for containment
12
13
Guidance 11
RS 13. Barrier siting 13
Performance
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11 14. Barrier design 13

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Section 3: Guards and barriers 12
15.
16.
Loading bay
Marking by a barrier
13
15

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Pedestrian guarding
Guarding of areas used
12
17. Marking by a surface 15
for maintenance
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Vehicle barriers
13
13
18.

TABLE
Doors with vision panels 17

Loading bays 13
1. Rise and going 6

Approved Document K Protection from falling, collision and impact

1
K
Use of guidance
THE APPROVED DOCUMENTS a British Standard, or an alternative national
technical specification of any state which is a
The Building Regulations 2000 (SI 2000/2531), contracting party to the European Economic Area
which came into operation on 1 January 2001, which, in use, is equivalent, or a product covered

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replace the Building Regulations 1991 (SI 1991/2768)
and consolidate all subsequent revisions to those
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regulations. This document is one of a series that
by a national or European certificate issued by a
European Technical Approval issuing body, and

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has been approved and issued by the Secretary
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the conditions of use are in accordance with
the terms of the certificate. You will find further

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of State for the purpose of providing practical
guidance with respect to the requirements of
Schedule 1 to and Regulation 7 of the Building
guidance in the Approved Document supporting
Regulation 7 on materials and workmanship.

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Regulations 2000 for England and Wales. Independent certification schemes

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At the back of this document is a list of all There are many UK product certification schemes.

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the documents that have been approved and
issued by the Secretary of State for this purpose.
Approved Documents are intended to provide
guidance for some of the more common building
situations. However, there may well be alternative
ways of achieving compliance with the requirements.
Thus there is no obligation to adopt any
particular solution contained in an Approved
Document if you prefer to meet the relevant
requirement in some other way.
Other requirements
Such schemes certify compliance with the
requirements of a recognised document which is
appropriate to the purpose for which the material
is to be used. Materials which are not so certified
may still conform to a relevant standard.
Many certification bodies which approve such
schemes are accredited by UKAS.
Technical specifications
Building Regulations are made for specific
purposes: health and safety, energy conservation

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The guidance contained in an Approved DocumentN
relates only to the particular requirements of the
and the welfare and convenience of disabled
people. Standards and technical approvals are
relevant guidance to the extent that they relate

RS
Regulations which the document addresses. The
building work will also have to comply with the
to these considerations. However, they may also
address other aspects of performance such as

Schedule 1 to the Regulations.

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requirements of any other relevant paragraphs in serviceability, or aspects which although they
relate to health and safety are not covered by

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There are Approved Documents which give
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guidance on each of the parts of Schedule 1
the Regulations.

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When an Approved Document makes reference
and on Regulation 7. to a named standard, the relevant version of

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LIMITATION ON REQUIREMENTS
In accordance with Regulation 8, the requirements
in Parts A to K and N of Schedule 1 to the
Building Regulations do not require anything
to be done except for the purpose of securing
reasonable standards of health and safety for
persons in or about buildings (and any others
who may be affected by buildings or matters
connected with buildings).
the standard is the one listed at the end of the
publication. However, if this version has been
revised or updated by the issuing standards
body, the new version may be used as a source
of guidance provided it continues to address
the relevant requirements of the Regulations.
The appropriate use of a product which complies
with a European Technical Approval as defined in
the Construction Products Directive will meet the
relevant requirements.

MATERIALS AND WORKMANSHIP

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amendments to its Approved Documents to
reflect emerging harmonised European Standards.
Any building work which is subject to the
RS Where a national standard is to be replaced by a
requirements imposed by Schedule 1 to the

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Building Regulations should, in accordance with
Regulation 7, be carried out with proper materials
harmonised European Standard, there will be a
co-existence period during which either standard
may be referred to. At the end of the co-existence
and in a workmanlike manner.

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You may show that you have complied with
Regulation 7 in a number of ways. These include

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the appropriate use of a product bearing CE
marking in accordance with the Construction
Products Directive (89/106/EEC)1 as amended
by the CE Marking Directive (93/68/EEC)2, or a 1
As implemented by the Construction Products Regulations 1991
product complying with an appropriate technical (SI 1991/1620).
specification (as defined in those Directives), 2
As implemented by the Construction Products (Amendment) Regulations
1994 (SI 1994/3051).

Protection from falling, collision and impact Approved Document K

2
USE OF GUIDANCE K
THE WORKPLACE (HEALTH,
SAFETY AND WELFARE)
REGULATIONS 1992
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare)
Regulations 1992 contain some requirements

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which affect building design. The main
requirements are now covered by the Building

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Regulations, but for further information see:
Workplace health, safety and welfare, The

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Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations
1992, Approved Code of Practice and Guidance;

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The Health and Safety Commission, L24;
Published by HMSO 1992; ISBN 0-11-886333-9.
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The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare)

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Regulations 1992 apply to the common parts
of flats and similar buildings if people such as
cleaners and caretakers are employed to work in
these common parts. Where the requirements of
the Building Regulations that are covered by this
part do not apply to dwellings, the provisions may
still be required in the situations described above
in order to satisfy the Workplace Regulations.
Mixed use development
In mixed use developments part of a building

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may be used as a dwelling while another part

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has non-domestic use. In such cases, if the

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requirements of this part of the Regulations

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for dwellings and non-domestic use differ,
the requirements for non-domestic use should

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apply in any shared parts of the building.

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Approved Document K Protection from falling, collision and impact

3
K1 STAIRS, LADDERS AND RAMPS
The Requirement K1
This Approved Document deals with the following
Requirement from Part K of Schedule 1 to the
Building Regulations 2000.

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Requirement
RS Limits on application

Stairs, ladders and ramps

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K1. Stairs, ladders and ramps shall be so designed, constructed
and installed as to be safe for people moving between different
Requirement K1 applies only to stairs, ladders and ramps
which form part of the building.
levels in or about the building.
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Where necessary reference should be made
to Approved Document B: Fire safety, and
Approved Document M: Access and facilities
for disabled people.
Note: Attention is drawn to the Workplace
(Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992
Compliance with Building Regulation requirement
K1 and, where appropriate, requirement M2 where

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it relates to stairs and ramps would, in accordance
with Section 23(3) of the Health and Safety at
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Work, etc. Act 1974, prevent the service of an
RS
improvement notice with regard to the requirements

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of Regulation 17 of the Workplace (Health, Safety
and Welfare) Regulations 1992 which relate to

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permanent stairs, ladders and ramps on pedestrian
traffic routes within the workplace premises,

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including those used to give access for

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maintenance to parts of the workplace premises.

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Stairs, ladders and ramps Approved Document K

4
 K1
Guidance
Performance a. for new assembly buildings, BS 5588-6:1991
Fire precautions in the design, construction
In the Secretary of States view the requirement and use of buildings. Code of Practice for
K1 will be met by the use of stairs, ladders places of assembly;

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and ramps in appropriate circumstances to
afford reasonable safety between levels in the
following buildings:
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b. for work to existing assembly buildings,
Guide to Fire Precautions in Existing Places

RS
a. dwellings where the difference in level is more
of Entertainment and Like Premises, Home
Office 1990;
than 600mm;

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b. other buildings where the change of level is
c. for stands at sports grounds, Guide to Safety

a stair).
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two or more risers (or 380mm if not part of
at Sports Grounds, The Stationery Office 1997.
Definitions

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An acceptable level of safety can be achieved
by different standards of provision, depending
on the circumstances; for example, in a public
building the standard of provision may be higher
than in a dwelling, to reflect the lesser familiarity
and greater number of users.
Where access is required only for the purpose of
maintenance, greater care can be expected from
those gaining access, and it would be reasonable
that less demanding provisions could satisfy the
requirement.
Introduction
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0.1
meeting the requirement.
RS
This document describes some ways of
0.5 The following meanings apply to terms
throughout this Approved Document.
Alternating tread stair A stair with paddle
shaped treads with the wide portion alternating
from one side to the other on consecutive treads
(see paragraphs 1.221.24).
Containment A barrier that prevents people
falling from one floor to the storey below (see
Diagrams 11 and 12).
Flight The part of a stair or ramp between
landings that has a continuous series of steps or
a continuous slope (for the widths and lengths of
flights see paragraphs 1.111.14).
Going The horizontal dimensions from front to

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Section 1 gives guidance on aspects of geometry
of stairs, special stairs and guarding of stairs.
back of a tread less any overlap with the next
tread above (for measurement of the going on
tapered treads see paragraphs 1.181.20).

of ramps.
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Section 2 gives guidance on ramps and guarding
N Helical stair A stair that describes a helix round

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0.2 The requirement does not apply to means
Ladder A means of access to another level
of access outside a building unless the access is
formed by a series of rungs or narrow treads on
part of the building; for example, the requirement
which a person normally ascends or descends
does not apply to steps on land leading to a
facing the ladder (see paragraphs 1.25 and 1.26).
building, but does apply to entrance steps which
are part of the building. Ramp A slope steeper than 1 in 20 designed to
conduct a pedestrian or wheelchair user from
0.3 Where access routes:
one level to another (see Section 2).
a. form part of a means of escape in case of
Rise The height between consecutive treads
fire, reference should be made to Approved
(see paragraphs 1.11.6).
Document B: Fire safety;
Spiral stair A stair that describes a helix round a

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b. are intended as a means of access for disabled
people, reference should be made to Approved

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Document M: Access and facilities for
central column (see paragraph 1.21).
Stair A succession of steps and landings that
disabled people.

RS makes it possible to pass on foot to other levels.

0.4
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In places where a stair or ramp forms part

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of the means of access within assembly buildings,
Tapered tread A step in which the nosing is not
parallel to the nosing of the step or landing above

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such as sports stadia, arenas, theatres, cinemas,
etc., it should conform to the guidance in Part K:
Protection from falling, collision and impact.
it (see paragraphs 1.181.20).

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However, where steps are part of the gangways
serving areas for spectators or there needs to
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be special consideration given to guarding in
spectator areas, then reference should be made
to relevant guidance such as:

Approved Document K Stairs, ladders and ramps

5
K1
Section 1: Stairs and ladders
Steepness of stairs rise and going
Diagram 1 Measuring rise and going
1.1 The requirement will be satisfied if, in a
flight, the steps all have the same rise and the See paras 1.31.5

same going to the dimensions shown in 1.3 or

comply with 1.4 and 1.5.

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1.2
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Three categories of stairs are considered
in this Approved Document:
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one dwelling.
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Private intended to be used for only

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Institutional and assembly serving a place

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where a substantial number of people will
gather.
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1.3 ON
Other in all other buildings.
Indication of the practical limits for rise
and going, for each category of stair which
satisfies the requirements, is given below. 1.5 The normal relationship between the
dimensions of the rise and going is that twice the
a. Private stair: Any rise between 155mm and rise plus the going (2R + G) should be between
220mm used with any going between 245mm 550mm and 700mm.
and 260mm; or
Diagram 1 shows how to measure the rise and
Any rise between 165mm and 200mm used going (for steps with tapered treads, see also
with any going between 223mm and 300mm. paragraphs 1.181.20).
b. Institutional and assembly stair: Any rise
between 135mm** and 180mm** used with
ION 1.6 In assembly buildings, the gangways may
need to be at different pitches to maintain
any going between 280mm and 340mm.

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c. Other stair: Any rise between 150mm** andS sightlines for spectators and this may affect the
main stairs, etc.
190mm** used with any going between
250mm and 320mm.
VE The maximum pitch for gangways for seated
spectators is 35.
1.4
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Table 1 gives the maximum rise and
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minimum going for the three stair categories.
Alternative approach

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can be met by following the relevant
recommendations in BS 5395-1:1977 Stairs,
Table 1 Rise and going ladders and walkways. Code of practice for the
design of straight stairs.
Maximum Minimum
rise going Construction of steps
(mm) (mm)
1.8 Steps should have level treads. Steps
1. Private stair 220 220
may have open risers, but treads should then
2. Institutional and 180** 280*
overlap each other by at least 16mm. For steps
assembly stair in buildings providing the means of access for
disabled people reference should be made to
3. Other stair 190**

ION 250 Approved Document M, Access and facilities

for disabled people.

Note:
RS 1.9 All stairs which have open risers and are
likely to be used by children under 5 years should

VE
The maximum pitch for private stair is 42. be constructed so that a 100mm diameter sphere
cannot pass through the open risers.
*

to 250mm.
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If the area of a floor of the building is less
than 100m2, the going may be reduced

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** For maximum rise for stairs providing

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the means of access for disabled people,
reference should be made to Approved
Document M: Access and facilities for
disabled people.

Stairs, ladders and ramps Approved Document K

6
STAIRS AND LADDERS K1
Headroom 1.12 A stair in a public building which is wider
than 1800mm should be divided into flights
1.10 A headroom of 2m is adequate on the
which are not wider than 1800mm as shown
access between levels (see Diagram 2). For loft
in Diagram 4.
conversions where there is not enough space
to achieve this height, the headroom will be
satisfactory if the height measured at the centre

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of the stair width is 1.9m reducing to 1.8m at the
side of the stair as shown in Diagram 3.
Diagram 4 Dividing flights

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See para 1.12

Diagram 2 Measuring headroom

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See para 1.10

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Length of flights
1.13 The number of risers in a flight should be
limited to 16 if a stair serves an area used as a

Diagram 3 Reduced headroom for

ION shop or for assembly purposes.
For gangways of shallow pitch that are used in
loft conversions
RS assembly buildings reference should be made
to BS 5588-6:1991 and to the Guide to Safety in
See para 1.10

VE Sports Grounds and Guide to Fire Precautions in

Existing Places of Entertainment and Like Premises.

INE 1.14 Stairs having more than 36 risers in

consecutive flights should make at least one

L change of direction between flights of at least 30

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(see Diagram 5).

Diagram 5 Change of direction

See para 1.14

ION
Width of flights

RS
VE
1.11 No recommendations for minimum stair
widths are given. Designers should bear in mind
Landings
1.15 Landings should be provided at the top

INE
the requirements for stairs which:
a. form part of means of escape. Reference
and bottom of every flight. The width and length
of every landing should be at least as great as
Fire safety;
NL
should be made to Approved Document B: the smallest width of the flight. The landing may
include part of the floor of the building.

O
b. provide access for disabled people.
Reference should be made to Approved
Document M: Access and facilities for
1.16 To afford safe passage landings should
be clear of permanent obstruction. A door may
swing across a landing at the bottom of a flight
disabled people. but only if it will leave a clear space of at least
400mm across the full width of the flight (see

Approved Document K Stairs, ladders and ramps

7
K1 STAIRS AND LADDERS
Diagram 6). Doors to cupboards and ducts may
open in a similar manner over a landing at the top
of a flight (see Diagram 7). For means of escape
requirements reference should be made to
Approved Document B: Fire safety.
1.17 Landings should be level unless they are
1.19 Where consecutive tapered treads are
used a uniform going should be maintained.
1.20 Where a stair consists of straight and
tapered treads the going of the tapered treads
should not be less than the going of the straight
flight these treads should satisfy paragraphs

ION
formed by the ground at the top or bottom of a
flight. The maximum slope of this type of landing
1.1 to 1.5.
Stairs designed to BS 585-1:1989 Wood stairs.
or otherwise made firm.
RS
may be 1 in 20 provided that the ground is paved
Specification for stairs with closed risers
for domestic use, including straight and winder

VE flights and quarter or half landings, will offer

reasonable safety.
Diagram 6 Landings next to doors

INE
See para 1.16

L Diagram 8 Measuring tapered treads

ON See para 1.18

ION
RS
Diagram 7 Cupboard onto landing
VE
See para 1.16

INE
L
ON

Special stairs
ION
Tapered treads

RS
1.18 For steps with tapered treads the going
should be measured as follows:
VE
measure in the middle; and

INE
a. if the width of flight is narrower than 1m
Spiral and helical stairs

270mm from each side.

NL
b. if the width of flight is 1m or wider measure
O
The requirement will be satisfied if the rise and
going complies with advice in paragraphs 1.1
to 1.5.
The going of tapered treads should measure at
least 50mm at the narrow end (see Diagram 8).
1.21 Stairs designed in accordance with BS
5395-2:1984 Stairs, ladders and walkways. Code
of practice for the design of helical and spiral
stairs will be adequate.
Stairs with goings less than shown in this standard
may be considered in conversion work when
space is limited and the stair does not serve
more than one habitable room.

Stairs, ladders and ramps Approved Document K

8
STAIRS AND LADDERS K1
Alternating tread stairs Stairs, ladders and walkways. Code of practice for
the design of industrial stairs, permanent ladders
1.22 This type of stair is one of a number of
and walkways, or BS 4211:1987 Specification for
stair types designed to save space. The general
ladders for permanent access to chimneys, other
pattern of steps has alternate handed steps with
high structures, silos and bins.
part of the tread cut away; the user relies on
familiarity and regular use for reasonable safety Handrails for stairs
(see Diagram 9).

ION
1.23 Alternating tread stairs should only be
1.27 Stairs should have a handrail on at least
one side if they are less than 1m wide. They

RS
installed in one or more straight flights for a loft
conversion and then only when there is not
should have a handrail on both sides if they are
wider. Handrails should be provided beside the
E
enough space to accommodate a stair satisfying
V
paragraphs 1.1 to 1.17 above. It should only be
two bottom steps in public buildings and where
stairs are intended to be used by people with

INE
used for access to one habitable room, together
if desired with a bathroom and/or a WC. This WC
disabilities. See Approved Document M: Access
and facilities for disabled people. Elsewhere

L
must not be the only WC in the dwelling. handrails need not be provided beside the two

ON
1.24 Steps should be uniform with parallel
nosings. The stair should have handrails on both
sides and the treads should have slip resistant
surfaces. The tread sizes over the wider part of
the step should be in line with dimensions shown
in Table 1 with a maximum rise of 220mm and a
minimum going of 220mm. The provisions stated
in paragraph 1.9 will apply.
Diagram 9 Alternating tread stair
See paras 1.221.24
bottom steps.
In all buildings handrail height should be between
900mm and 1000mm measured to the top of the
handrail from the pitch line or floor.
Handrails can form the top of a guarding if the
heights can be matched.
Guarding of stairs
1.28 Flights and landings should be guarded at
the sides (see Diagram 11):

ION a. in dwellings when there is a drop of more

than 600mm;

RS b. in other buildings when there are two or

more risers.

VE 1.29 Except on stairs in a building which is not

INE likely to be used by children under 5 years the

guarding to a flight should prevent children being
held fast by the guarding. The construction
L should be such that:

ON a. a 100mm sphere cannot pass through

any openings in the guarding; and
b. children will not readily be able to climb
the guarding.
1.30 The height of the guarding itself should
be as shown in Diagram 11.
Access for maintenance purposes
1.31 Where frequent access for maintenance

ION will be required (e.g. at least once per month),

provisions such as those suggested for private
stairs in dwellings in this Approved Document,
Fixed ladders

RS
1.25 A fixed ladder should have fixed handrails
or the guidance in BS 5395-3 on industrial stairs
and ladders, will satisfy the requirement.

VE
on both sides and should only be installed for
access in a loft conversion and then only when
1.32 Where access will be required less

I E
there is not enough space without alteration to

N
the existing space to accommodate a stair which
frequently it may be appropriate to use portable
ladders, etc. Provisions for safe use of such
temporary means of access are not covered

NL
satisfies paragraphs 1.1 to 1.17. It should be
used for access to only one habitable room.
by Building Regulations, but they are covered
by the Construction (Design and Management)

O
Retractable ladders are not acceptable for
means of escape. For reference see Approved
Document B: Fire safety.
Regulations 1994.

1.26 Stairs, ladders and walkways in industrial

buildings should, as appropriate, be designed and
constructed in accordance with BS 5395-3:1985

Approved Document K Stairs, ladders and ramps

9
K1
Section 2: Ramps
2.1 Steepness To permit safe passage the 2.5 Handrails Ramps that are less than 1m
steepest slope of ramp that should be used is wide should have a handrail on at least one side.
1:12. They should have a handrail on both sides if they
are wider. There is no need to have handrails if
2.2
N
Headroom All ramps and landings should
have a clear headroom throughout of at least 2m
(see Diagram 10).
IO
the rise of the ramp is 600mm or less.
Handrails should be at a height of between
2.3
RS
Width There is no recommendation
900mm and 1000mm. They should give firm
support and allow a firm grip. Handrails can form

VE
for minimum ramp widths, except for ramps
which form means of escape; for reference, see
the top of the guarding if the heights can be
matched. For handrails on ramps providing access

NE
Approved Document B: Fire safety. For ramps
providing access for disabled people see

I
Approved Document M: Access and facilities
for disabled people see Approved Document M:
Access and facilities for disabled people.
for disabled people.
L 2.6 Landings Ramps should be provided with

ON
landings (see paragraphs 1.151.17).
2.4 Obstruction of ramps Ramps should be
clear of permanent obstructions. 2.7 Guarding Ramps and their landings
should be guarded at their sides in the same way
as stairs (see paragraphs 1.281.30).

Diagram 10 Ramp design

See paras 2.12.7

ION
RS
VE
INE
L
ON

ION
RS
VE
INE
NL
O

Stairs, ladders and ramps Approved Document K

10
PEDESTRIAN AND VEHICLE BARRIERS K2/3
The Requirements K2 and K3
This Approved Document deals with the following
Requirements from Part K of Schedule 1 to the
Building Regulations 2000.

ION
Requirement
RS Limits on application

Protection from falling

VE
INE
K2. (a) Any stairs, ramps, floors and balconies and any roof to
which people have access, and
Requirement K2(a) applies only to stairs and ramps which
form part of the building.

L
ON
(b) any light well, basement area or similar sunken
area connected to a building, shall be provided with barriers
where it is necessary to protect people in or about the building
from falling.
Vehicle barriers and loading bays
K3. (1) Vehicle ramps and any levels in a building to which
vehicles have access, shall be provided with barriers where it is
necessary to protect people in or about the building.
(2) Vehicle loading bays shall be constructed in such a
way, or be provided with such features, as may be necessary to
protect people in them from collision with vehicles.

ION
S
Note: Attention is drawn to the Workplace
R
VE
(Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992
Compliance with Building Regulation requirement Compliance with Building Regulation requirement

NE
K2 would, in accordance with Section 23(3) of
the Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974,
I
K3 (2) would, in accordance with Section 23(3)
of the Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974,

L
prevent the service of an improvement notice prevent the service of an improvement notice

ON
relating to guarding with regard to the requirements relating to the design of loading bays under
for protection from the risk of falling a distance Regulation 17 of the Workplace (Health, Safety
likely to cause personal injury in Regulation 13 and Welfare) Regulations 1992.
of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare)
Regulations 1992.

Guidance
Performance d. loading bays are provided with an adequate

ON
In the Secretary of States view the requirements
I
of K2 and K3 will be met if, in order to reduce the
number of exits or refuges which enable
people to avoid being struck or crushed

S
risk to the safety of people in and about buildings:
R
by vehicles.
An acceptable level of safety can be achieved

VE
a. pedestrian guarding is provided in dwellings
which is capable of preventing people from
by different standards of provision for guarding,
depending on the circumstances; for example, in
than 600mm; and
INE
being injured by falling from a height of more a public building the standard of provision may
be higher than in a dwelling, to reflect the lesser

NL
b. pedestrian guarding is provided in other
buildings which is capable of preventing
familiarity and greater number of users.
For areas where access is required only for the
O
people from falling more than the height of
two risers (or 380mm, if not part of a stair);
c. vehicle barriers are provided which are capable
purpose of maintenance, greater care can be
expected from those gaining access, and it would
be reasonable that less demanding provisions
of resisting or deflecting the impact of vehicles; could satisfy the requirement.

Approved Document K Pedestrian and vehicle barriers

11
K2/3
Section 3: Guards and barriers
Pedestrian guarding 3.2 Design Any wall, parapet, balustrade
or similar obstruction may serve as guarding.
3.1 Siting Guarding should be provided where
Guarding should be at least the height shown
it is reasonably necessary for safety to guard the
in Diagram 11. Guarding should be capable of

I
(including rooflights and other openings), any
ON
edges of any part of a floor (including the edge
below an opening window), gallery, balcony, roof
resisting at least the horizontal force given in
BS 6399-1:1996. Where glazing is used in the
other place to which people have access and

RS
any light well, basement area or similar sunken
guarding, reference should be made to Approved
Document N: Glazing safety in relation to

VE
area next to a building. Guarding should also be
provided in vehicle parks, but not on any ramps
impact, opening and cleaning.
For further guidance on design of barriers

INE
used only for vehicle access. Guarding need not
be provided to such places as loading bays
and infill panels, reference should be made to
BS 6180:1995 Code of practice for protective
where it would obstruct normal use.
L barriers in and about buildings.

Diagram 11 Guarding design ON

ION
RS
VE
INE
L
ON

ION
RS
VE
INE
NL
O

Pedestrian and vehicle barriers Approved Document K

12
GUARDS AND BARRIERS K2/3
3.3 Where buildings are likely to be used Vehicle barriers
by children under 5 years the guarding should
3.7 Siting: If vehicles have access to a floor,
prevent children being held fast by the guarding.
roof or ramp which forms part of a building,
The construction should be such that a 100mm
barriers should be provided to any edges which
sphere cannot pass through any opening in the
are level with or above the floor or ground or any
guarding and so that children will not readily be
other route for vehicles (see Diagram 13).
able to climb it. Horizontal rails for such guarding
should be avoided.

ION 3.8 Design: Any wall, parapet, balustrade or

similar obstruction may serve as a barrier.

RS Barriers should be at least the height shown in

Diagram 12 Typical locations for
containment
VE Diagram 14 and should be capable of resisting
forces set out in BS 6399-1:1996 Loading for

See Diagram 11

INE buildings. Code of practice for dead and

imposed loads.

L
ON Diagram 14 Barrier design
See para 3.8

ION
RS
VE
Guarding of areas used for maintenance
3.4
NE
Where frequent access for maintenance

I
will be required (e.g. at least once per month),
Loading bays
3.9 Design: Loading bays should be provided
L
provisions such as those suggested for dwellings with at least one exit point from the lower level

ON
in this Approved Document (see Diagram 11) will
satisfy the requirement.
3.5 Where access for maintenance will be
required less frequently, it may be appropriate
to use temporary types of guarding or warning
notices. Provisions for such measures are not
covered by Building Regulations, but they are
covered by the Construction (Design and
Management) Regulations 1994.
3.6 Information on signs is given in the Health
(preferably near the centre of the rear wall). Wide
loading bays (e.g. those for three or more vehicles)
should be provided with at least two exit points, one
being at each side. Alternatively, a refuge should
be provided which people can use to avoid being
struck or crushed by a vehicle (see Diagram 15).
Diagram 15 Loading bay
See para 3.9

ION
and Safety (Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996.

Diagram 13 Barrier siting

RS
See paras 3.7 and 3.8

VE
INE
NL
O

Approved Document K Pedestrian and vehicle barriers

13
K4 PROTECTION FROM COLLISION WITH OPEN WINDOWS, ETC.
The Requirement K4
This Approved Document deals with the following
Requirements from Part K of Schedule 1 to the
Building Regulations 2000.

ION
Requirement
RS Limits on application

VE
Protection from collision with open windows, etc.

INE
K4. Provision shall be made to prevent people moving in or
about the building from colliding with open windows, skylights
Requirement K4 does not apply to dwellings.

or ventilators.
L
ON
Where necessary, reference should be made
to Approved Document B: Fire safety, for
guidance on clear dimensions of escape routes;
and Approved Document M: Access and facilities
for disabled people, for guidance on hazards on
access routes.
Note: Attention is drawn to the Workplace
(Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992
Compliance with Building Regulation requirement
K4 would, in accordance with Section 23(3) of
ION
the Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974,
prevent the service of an improvement notice
RS
VE
with regard to the requirements for projecting
windows, skylights and ventilators covered by

and Welfare) Regulations 1992.

INE
regulation 15(2) of the Workplace (Health, Safety

L
Guidance ON
Performance
In the Secretary of States view, requirement K4
will be met if windows, skylights and ventilators
can be left open without danger of people
colliding with them. This could be achieved by:
a. installing windows, etc. so that projecting
parts are kept away from people moving in
and around the building; or
ION
RS
b. installing features which guide people moving

window, skylight or ventilator.

VE
in or about the building away from any open

INE
In special cases, such as spaces used only for
maintenance purposes, greater care can be

NL
expected by those gaining access and it would
be reasonable that less demanding provisions
could satisfy the requirement.
O

Protection from collision Approved Document K

14

Section 4: Protection from collision
Introduction to provisions
4.1 This Approved Document sets out some
ways of complying with the requirement for
windows, skylights and ventilators.
Projecting parts
ION
K4
Spaces used only for maintenance
4.4 In spaces which are used infrequently, and
only for the purpose of maintenance, provisions
such as clear marking of the projecting part to
make it easy to see will satisfy the requirement.

4.2
S
Parts of windows, skylights and ventilators
R
VE
that project either internally or externally more
than about 100mm horizontally into spaces
which are used by people moving in or about the
building should be:

INE
L
a. not less than 2m above the ground or floor

ON
when in any fixed position; or
b. marked by a feature such as a barrier or
rail about 1100mm high to prevent people
walking into the projecting part (see Diagram
16); or
c. marked by provision of surfaces with strong
tactile differences or by suitable landscaping
features, so that people are guided away
from them (see Approved Document M and
Diagram 17).

Diagram 16 Marking by a barrier

ION
See para 4.2

RS
VE
INE
L
ON

Diagram 17 Marking by a surface

See para 4.2

ION
RS
VE
INE
NL
O

Approved Document K Protection from collision

15
K5 PROTECTION AGAINST IMPACT FROM AND TRAPPING BY DOORS
The Requirement K5
This Approved Document deals with the following
Requirement from Part K of Schedule 1 to the
Building Regulations 2000.

ION
Requirement
RS Limits on application

VE
Protection against impact from and trapping by doors

NE
K5. (1) Provision shall be made to prevent any door or gate:

I
Requirement K5 does not apply to:

L
(a) which slides or opens upwards, from falling onto (a) dwellings or

ON
any person; and
(b) any door or gate which is part of a lift.
(b) which is powered, from trapping any person.
(2) Provision shall be made for powered doors and gates
to be opened in the event of a power failure.
(3) Provision shall be made to ensure a clear view of the
space on either side of a swing door or gate.

Where necessary, reference should be made

to: Part B Fire Safety (B1: Means of escape has
additional guidance for doors on escape routes)
and Part M Access and facilities for disabled
ION
people (M2: Access and use has additional
guidance on the design of internal and
RS
external doors).
Note: Attention is drawn to the Workplace
VE
INE
(Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992

L
Compliance with Building Regulation requirement

ON
K5 would, in accordance with Section 23(3) of
the Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974,
prevent the service of an improvement notice
with regard to the requirements for doors and
gates in Regulation 18 of the Workplace (Health,
Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992.

Guidance
Performance
IO
In the Secretary of States view, requirement K5
N
S
will be satisfied if measures are taken to prevent
R
the opening and closing of doors and gates
presenting a safety hazard.
VE
INE
NL
O

Protection against impact Approved Document K

16
 K5
Section 5: Protection against impact
Introduction to provisions
Diagram 18 Doors with vision panels
5.1 This Approved Document sets out some
ways of complying with the requirement for

Safety features
ION
suitable construction of doors and gates.

5.2
S
Provision of features such as the following
R
will satisfy the requirement:

VE
a. doors and gates on main traffic routes and

NE
those which can be pushed open from either
side should have vision panels unless they
I
L
are low enough to see over (typically 900mm

ON
for a person in a wheelchair). Guidance on
the size of vision panels suitable for use by
disabled people is given in Approved
Document M (see Diagram 18);
b. sliding doors and gates should have a stop or
other effective means to prevent them coming
off the end of the track. They should also
have a retaining rail to prevent them falling
should the suspension system fail or the
rollers leave the track;
c. upward opening doors and gates should be

way that could cause injury;

ION
fitted with a device to stop them falling in a

S
d. power operated doors and gates should have:

VE
safety features to prevent injury to people
who are struck or trapped (such as a
pressure sensitive door edge which

INE
operates the power switch);

L
a readily identifiable and accessible

ON
stop switch;
provision for manual or automatic opening
in the event of a power failure where and
when necessary for health or safety.

ION
RS
VE
INE
NL
O

Approved Document K Protection against impact

17
K
Standards referred to
BS 585-1:1989
Wood stairs. Specification for stairs with closed
risers for domestic use, including straight and
winder flights and quarter and half landings.
AMD 6510 1990. Obsolescent.
BS 4211:1987
ION
RS
Specification for ladders for permanent access to
chimneys, other high structures, silos and bins.
AMD 7064 1992.
V
(Withdrawn and superseded by BS4211:1994.E
INE
Withdrawn and superseded by BS 4211:2005
Specification for permanently fixed ladders.)
BS 5395-1:1977
L
ON
Stairs, ladders and walkways. Code of practice
for the design of straight stairs. AMD 3355 1980,
AMD 4450 1984.
(Withdrawn and superseded by BS 5395-1:2000
Stairs, ladders and walkways. Code of practice
for the design, construction and maintenance of
straight stairs and windows.)
BS 5395-2:1984
Stairs, ladders and walkways. Code of practice
for the design of helical and spiral stairs.
AMD 6076 1989.
BS 5395-3:1985

IO
Stairs, ladders and walkways. Code of practice
N
ladders and walkways. AMD 14247 2003.
RS
for the design of industrial type stairs, permanent

VE
(Partially replaced by BS EN ISO 14122-1:2001
Safety of machinery. Permanent means of access

INE
to machinery. Choice of fixed means of access
between two levels. BS EN ISO 14122-2:2001

L
Safety of machinery. Working platforms and

ON
walkways. BS EN ISO 14122-3:2001 Safety
of machinery. Permanent means of access to
machinery stairways, stepladders and guard-rails.)
BS 5588-6:1991
Fire precautions in the design, construction and
use of buildings. Code of practice for places of
assembly. AMD 10212 1998, AMD 10443 1999,
AMD 14990 2004.
BS 6180: 1995
Code of practice for barriers in and about buildings.
(Withdrawn and superseded by BS 6180:1999

AMD 13292 2001.)

ION
Barriers in and about buildings. Code of practice.

BS 6399-1:1996
RS
and imposed loads. AMD 13669 2002.
VE
Loading for buildings. Code of practice for dead

INE
NL
O

Protection from falling, collision and impact Approved Document K

18
 Building Regulations 2000
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INE Protection from falling,

L
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APPROVED DOCUMENT K
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ION APPROVED DOCUMENT

RS
VE K1 Stairs, ladders and ramps

INE K2 Protection from falling

L K3 Vehicle barriers and loading bays
ON K4 Protection from collision with open windows,
skylights and ventilators
ISBN-10 1 85946 210 3
ISBN-13 978 1 85946 210 2 K5 Protection against impact from and trapping
Stock code 56663
by doors
collision and impact
Crown copyright 2006
Protection from falling,

I N
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O
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